Over the years I’ve tried many different forms of locks. From the least secure with cables to the most with U locks. I’ve found a couple typically work best for me while providing decent security and the ability to lock up at most places.

My favorite type of lock is a ring lock with a thicker chain attached. That is if the bike has the mounts for the ring lock. Following that would be a chain lock. A ring lock by itself prevents roll away theft. The chains that connect will typically allow a greater distance to what you are locking to vs a chain lock. A hardened chain will typically fend off manual tools. A ring lock is also hard to get at without damaging the bike. In my example above it’s an ABUS non key retaining lock. On another bike I have an AXA Defender Key Retaining that I prefer much more. You can then use different chains with them. ABUS, AXA and Kryptonite make chains for these locks. Kryptonite had one of the thicker hardened chains thus why I use it. If you have questions about compatibility make sure to ask your shop about it. Also not all ring locks accept chains so make sure you purchase one that does.

I mentioned there are only certain bikes that can work with a ring lock. It is due to the frame design and you need braze ons on the rear triangle in a certain spot for it to work. Many city style e-bikes at our local bikes shops have this. Some examples of currently in (Dec 2024) would be like the Specialized Turbo Como or Vado and the Trek Verve+ /FX+ among others on the electric side. On the traditional or as some call the acoustic bike side you have the regular Electra Loft, Trek Verve, Specialized Sirrus, and the Trek FX line. If looking at other bikes I’d make sure to ask the shop about it.

Using an angle grinder proof U lock. They are heavy and don’t give much room to mount however they are the most secure. If you can make it work for your use cases there is nothing wrong going this route. I just haven’t been able to for most of mine thus far.

Another this to consider is the value of the bike being locked up. The higher the value the more emphasis on locks. Plus I really recommend insurance for if the bike gets stolen and have it myself in addition to my locks. I will cover this in a later article.